Successful Broadcaster, Masters in 4 Disciplines, English – Kannada – Konkani – Hindi Writer,
A popular name in Anchoring Large Cultural Events
CONCEPTAFERNANDES
Columnist H.R.Alvawrites:
Veez Konkani and Veez Illustrated Weeklies have been published by my good friend Lion Dr. Austin D'Souza Prabhu from Illinois, USAfor7years. Austin and I have been good friends for over 45 years and as such he is a
family friend too. I have been writingcolumnsintheVeezKonkani continuously for the past 4 years and occasionally in Veez Illustrated Weekly.VeezKonkaniisintroducing an achiever regularly from Coastal region since its inception. In this context I have introduced several suchpersonalities.
Austin has been asking my wife Concepta to write about me which she has not done so far with due apologies andexcuses. I have been featured in the cover page thrice already, largely because of my writings. Concepta and I are a little hesitanttowriteaboutusandrather feel happy to introduce other people on VEEZ and other platforms.
As Austin keeps reminding us, we can’t say“No” to him all the time, I requested Concepta on behalf of
Austin to write about her achievements invarious fields.
Over toConcepta….
Lion Austin D'Souza Prabhu, the editor of VEEZ has been a close friend to my husband, Herald ReginaldAlva,(H.R.Alvainshort)for 45long years andafamily friendto me from the time I am married to Harry. Austin is more than a friend to us. He has been editing and publishing the Veez Konkani and English weeklies from 2018. Harry has been contributing to VEEZ continuously on various topics. His penchant for introducing achievers ofourcommunity isadmirable.
about Harry, which Ihave not done so far. Due apologies and excuses. Same way he has been requesting Harry to write about me from early onandhehasbeen postponing the same.By the way we are happier to introduce otherpeople toVEEZand platforms rather than writing/ talking about ourachievements.
Austinhasbeen askingmetowrite
Recently,the editor ofRaknno -the oldest and longest surviving Konkani weekly- Rev. Fr. Rupesh Madtha had Interviewed me. He featured me as 'Personality of the Month' in the issue dated 7th November 2024. Seeingme in print and having agreed to be
interviewed for a periodical, Austin reminded Harry of the write-up about me which he has been insisting from so long. Harry dropped the ball in my court and said- "Austin has been after me from a long time and he is in no mood towait foranyfurther. Ihave some other urgent engagements in hand.Moreover, thereisthechance ofmissingout onmanythings from yourpersonalandprofessional side. Hence it would be better if you do thewrite up".
Andtheonusisonme.Iwilltake up this task of writing. It's my first attempt toportray myself. SohereI gowith firstperson monologue.
Family andchildhood:
I was born in a joint family living under one roof, consisting of grandparents, my parents andtheir children, dad's younger brother, his wife and children, dad's younger unmarried sister and one or two cousins, children of dad's sisters who were staying with us for high school studies. So, it was a large family in true sense with a large number ofchildren. Iwas the9th of
the 13 children to my parents. We are 10 girls and 3 boys. We belonged toSt.FrancisXavierParish of the then Mangalore Diocese whichis nowunder Udupi Diocese. My father was the 4th child to his parents- Anthony Fernandes and ReginaD’Souza.
Our parents, Raymond Fernandes and Christine Nazareth, were agriculturists. They had come from humble backgrounds with minimum schooling which was very common in those years. Very hardworking, sincere and humble. Primary crop was paddy (rice). beetel leaves(paan),coconut,areca, banana, vegetables. Around our house fruit trees like jack,mangoes, papaya, tamarind and a variety of wildfruits were in plenty. There was no dearth for food though liquid cashwasinshort supply. 3different crop seasons (Kaarthi, Suggi and Kolake) depending on the water resources and topography. The conventional irrigation system of drawing water from the wells with human labour was essential during second and third crops (Suggi and Kolake) after monsoons. We had a pair of buffaloes for ploughing the fields, cows for the dairy requirements. Livestock provided the essential green manure for all crops roundtheyear. Myfatherwas a progressive farmer who attempted growing high yielding ricevarieties.
Education:
Had my Primary schooling in St Francis Higher Primary school run by thechurchupto5th grade. Next 2 years I studied in Kemundel Higher Primary school, same school wheremygrandfatherwasateacher forsomeyears,wherehehadtaught English. High School and Pre university (from 8th to 12th) I studied in Admar Junior College which is managed by Admar Mutt (One among8Mutts ofUdupi).
For my graduation I moved to Mangalore city in 1983. I took admission to the School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, Mangalore. Stayed in the college hostel for 3 years.
In the month of June my parents really struggled to arrange for tuition fees of all the children. The farm produce was not bringing in much liquid flow into the household. Whatever small cash came was spent for other requirements. But the silver lining was that in the month of October after paddy harvest, we had plenty of rice for sale. My parents boiled the paddy, dried it in the sun and got rice de-husked in a nearby rice mill. A few families bought rice supplies from us for theentire year. My dad would bring some advance moneyfromsuchfamilieseveryyear during school reopening.
I would like to mention an incident here. I was going to the University for master’s and my younger sister for MBBS. Both of us had got seats to our respective courses. But we had to live in hostels. That meant more expenditure on tuition and hostelfees.Asusualmydadwentto a rich family, which was buying our rice, to ask for some advance. The man of the household was employed in a famous petroleum company in the middle- east and the lady was taking care of children
in our neighborhood. Her children were also studying with us. They were not very intelligent, but they could afford seats for professional courses by paying donations. Apparently, this lady was jealous that the children of an ordinary farmer had earned merit seats. So, shestartedgivingapieceofmindto my dad. "Why are you taking so much trouble to educate your daughters? Send the elder one for any job in Bombay or Gulf. Even domestic servants are paid well there. Andsendthe othertoa local college. You can manage with your limited means...."
My dad was offended by herwords butstillheretainedhismodesty and toldthat richlady.
"I have not come to seek your advice. I have come to take some advice for which Iam going togive you good quality rice for a reasonable rate which is produced out of my family's hardwork. Ifyou wish togive advance,you maygive. Ifyoudon't wanttogive,don'tgive. Nobody needs to advise me whether I should educate my daughters or send them to work". Withoutwaitingforherreply, hecamebackfrom there.
That speaks volumes about the clarity of my less educated dad's vision regarding the importance of education to children, especially girls. And due to the perseverance ofmyparentstwoofmysistershave taken the religious order, both are highly educated - one has studied master’s intheology inRome, other one is master’s inliterature, holds a Law degree andadiploma inSocial Work from the Coady International Institute,Canada. Mytwo sisters are teachers. I have become a Class 1 OfficerofCentral Government. Two youngersistersarepostgraduates in Alopathy Medicine (MBBS & MD). One is currently the Principal of a Paramedical college and the youngest is managing an independent hospital with a few other doctors. One sister holds a higher position in a multi-national company (MNC) as a senior engineer.Perhaps myparents didn't imagine that their sweat and small steps would bring such high rewards.
I completed my master’s in economics (M.A) from Mangalore University, living in a university hostel. I was a bright student and participated in various extracurricular activities. Literature, debateandcreativewritingweremy forte.
Necessity toearn:
My desire was to prepare for UPSC Exams immediately after Masters. But my younger siblings were pursuingeducationatvariouslevels.
Immediate younger sister was studying MBBS. The income of my parents was not adequate to provide forevery child'sambition of higher education. There was an immediate need to earn and support the family. Hence, I had begun to apply for competitive exams during the final year of masters.
During April 1988, the Staff Selection Commission of India had invited applications by graduates in any discipline for the posts of Transmission ExecutivesforAllIndia
Radio Stations across the country. I used to participate in radio
programmes since my 10th grade. First opportunity came my way when my Kannada article got selectedforpresentation onradioin 1980. I was given a cheque for ₹50 whichincluded₹30honorarium and ₹20travel expenses.
Preparations for the final year of Masters were in full swing. This notification of the Staff Selection Commission appealed to me so much that I applied for it immediately, though I am not sure of appointment location if got selected. Some of my friends were apprehensive and didn't want to take the plunge. But I wanted to take theriskandthe thrill.
My Principal at Roshni Nilaya Ms. Philomena D'Souza had given me an open invitation to come back and work in my Alma Mater on completion of Post graduation. Principal Ms. D'Souza was aware that I wanted to prepare for competitive exams, and she had told me to make use of the college library during my spare time. So, I joinedRoshniNilayaimmediately as a part time lecturer in Economics because undergraduate courses
hadalreadybegun.Weusedtohave anannualsystem unlike thepresent semester system and a mid-term breakin October-November.
Itwasadifferent feelingtomove to the table from the desk within two years in my Alma Mater. All my lecturers became my colleagues now and they treated me with affection, empathy and guided me with their rich experience in teaching.
As I do this write up, my English professor Ms. Frances G. Colaco, fondly called Frenny Colaco, has movedon toEternalRestattheage of 92. She was a great teacher and kind person, very generous to the students who came from a humble vernacular background. I take a moment here topayrespects toher andprayfortherepose ofthenoble departed soul. Inthemeantime, mywell-wishers in thestaffstartedinformingmeabout part time vacancies in nearby colleges and thus I got an opportunity to teach the pre university girls at St. Agnes College for a short period. The regular
lecturer there was on study leave. Similarly, another friend came up with the information about a short period vacancy in Dr. M.V. Shetty College ofHotelManagement.Ihad to do time management to work in 3 colleges on different days at different times. Commuting wasn't as easy between those places since I was dependent on public transport. But my youthfulness and enthusiasm kept me in positive spirits and looking back Ifeel good about how I managed everyday challenges. I had found an accommodation opposite Fatima Retreat House near St. Joseph Seminary who kept me as a paying guest. Aunt Rita, who had lost her husband at a young age, was making a living by embroidery and her specialization in cut work. Her children Flavy, Brayan, the enthusiastic cyclist and the youngest Olivia were going to school.
Towards AIRcareer:
In the month of August 1988, I appeared for the written examination in Bangalore for the post of already applied-
Transmission Executives. All applicants from Karnataka had to take the exam in Bangalore for limited vacancies. That I was disheartened to see the number of aspirants forvery few posts. During theexamIalsogottoknow thatthe successfulcandidates ofwritten test will be invited for oral Interviews in due course. Those selected in the final round of interviews will be selected andinstructed toreport at the specified Stations, mostly in Karnataka or even outside the State.
On my part I didwell, attempted to answer allquestions within thetime limit and felt a great sense of relief and a little bit of hope after the entire exercise. But nothing was sure.IcamebacktoMangalore and continued with teaching and getting used to juggling between three colleges. Weeks and months passedby.
Computers werecomingintooffices and institutions. Basic Computers were being introduced in some officesandorganizations. Computer training institutions started emerging in Mangalore too. New
computer courses were talk of the townandpeople startedsayingthat the world belonged to the computer literate generation. I joined a short computer course in St.AloysiusCollege duringthe midtermbreak. BythenmystintwithSt. Agnes and Dr. M.V. Shetty College of Hotel Management hadcome to an end and I had to look for other openings.
In early December, the same year I was down with a fever. For a few days Iwastreated forviral feverbut due to other symptoms my physician recommended certain testsandwasdiagnosed astyphoid.
Two Weeks of hospitalization and after discharge I went home to my native village in Udupi for recuperation. Christmas was fast approaching. Allthelettersreceived at my Mangalore address started getting redirected to my parental home. Due to the season's rush, postal delays used to be normal. Local postman also would take his own time to deliver letters to the scatteredordesolatehousesinrural areas. After Christmas, on 26th evening to be more specific, postman brought some letters,
most of them were Christmas greetings. To my surprise, among the redirected mail I found the call lettertoreport fororal interview on 28th December at 10.00 am at All IndiaRadio,Bangalore, locatednear the Raj Bhavan – the State Governor’s officeand residence.
Iwasjustoutofthehospitalandthe physician had recommended strict bed rest for the next two weeks whichmeantIhadtogiveuponthe job of my dreams. Even after the written examination and before my illnesses Iwas offered togive atalk on radio, andI was waiting on toes to become an “insider" of Akashvani.Ihadtotakethedecision inthis ‘nowornever’ situation andI decided to say "Yes" to the interview. Next day afternoon me andmyyounger brother traveledto Mangalore, went straight to the State transport bus station and enquired for a ticket to Bangalore. Sleeper coaches were not common in those days. All the luxury and semi - luxury buses were full. Very few seats were available in the ordinary nightbuswhichmeantone has to sit all night to get to Bangalore. I was not feeling great. My brother who was to accompany me till Mangalore decided to travel toBangalore withmebecauseofmy poorhealthcondition. Therewehad some relatives but there was one cousin very close to us and we would go to stay with them during Bangalore visits. His wife and children were gracious hosts. We
called them and informed them about theinterview andourarrival.
Next day my cousin dropped meto theinterviewvenue-AllIndiaRadio, Raj Bhavan Road, Bangalore. I had to fill in some forms prior to appearing before the Panel of Jury. Roll numbers were allotted and we were asked to wait for our turns. Longqueues ofcandidates awaiting interviews disheartened me to the extent of asking myself - was such travel necessary at the cost of my healthandwasitworth theeffort?
Soon itwastime forlunchbreak. By then almost half of the crowd had completed Interviews and I overheardsomeofthemsayingthat this interview must be an eye wash. I also got to know that the oral interviews werefor3daysfrom27th to 29th December 1988, more than 800 candidates shortlisted for 17 postsinKarnataka.Outofthemonly one third were for general merit category and the remaining vacancies were allotted under various Reserved categories. My turncamearound 4.00pm. BythenI was very tired due to my poor health condition and overnight
travel by bus. But I had to pull myself together and I managed to answer all questions by the 3member jury.Since Icome from the Coastal region with multilingual communities and mother tongue being Konkani, I was asked some questions related to language and literary personalities of the same region. They also asked me about my qualifications, hobbies and other areas of interest. Iguess they were satisfied with my response. I was told that the results of the interview would be communicated through aletter,indue course.
Backhomeatmycousin'splacethey were curious to know the outcome of the interview. I told them that I had done well. Some candidates were interviewed on the previous day and some more candidates were tobe interviewed on the third day also. By that time, I was too exhaustedandmycousintoldmeto stay with them forafew days untilI felt better. My brother returned to Mangalore onthesame night.
Ms. Frances G Colaco, my English professor and now my colleague had introduced me to Dr. William
DaSilva of Konkani Lexicon Project in the month of November 1988, a few days before I fell sick. The project was functioning at Fatima Retreat House near my college. I hadagreed to work part time there tooalongwithmyclassesatRoshni. Due to my poor health, I had not reported on work for a month and other staff over there perhaps believed I was not interested in working ontheproject. Icameback to Mangalore and continued with my work both at college and in the Lexicon.
Looking for full time job will continue in the next academic year asIstay put with Roshni Nilaya and the Lexicon project. I appeared for some Interviews for full time teaching vacancies, only to know that they were mere formalities to regularize the existing staff or to officiallyselect theirown person.
Ladyluckhadsmiledonme.Inafew months I received a letter to report as Transmission Executive at AIR Mangalore, after completion of mandatory formalities. I joined the services of Akashvani, which was known as AllIndia Radio until recently, on 23rd November 1989. It was Non-gazetted Class 3 Officer’s Post. I continued in the same post until February 2005 as subordinate officerandassistedthe Gazetted Officers in different sections. AIRMangalore is astation that produced programmes in different languages, focus being Kannada,Konkani andTulu inorder to cater to the local population, in addition to English, Hindi and Sanskrit Programmes.
Very next year, ie, 1990, my independent production of a Konkani Documentary woven around the Folk Percussion
instrument and music ‘GUMOT’ received a national award in Akashvani Annual Awards Competitions conducted for AIR Programme Staff across the country. I had studied the Konkani communities in Coastal Karnataka who played the folk percussion instrument ‘GUMOT’ anearthenpot with openings at both sides. Reading of the available literature opened myeyes tothefactthat the traditional musical instrument and its use was prevalent in entire Konkan belt that spanned from Ratnagiri in Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka and Kerala. Further exploration also revealed that different communities belonging to different faiths are also using it. Majorities of them are Christians and tribes following Hinduism and nature worship. I used the voice bites of veteran artist Joachim Pereira and Gopala Gowda, the folklorist. I wrote a script that covered all these elements, recorded sound bites, made a comparative analysis and proved how a humble earthen pot united community.
Mathew saw my abilities in multilingual communications and in programme production. He assignedme totheKannada Drama and features section in addition to the previous responsibilities. I continued to assist Konkani and English sections. We produced Kannada plays and features including NationalPlaysregularly.
In 1998, I hadproduced a Kannada play independently titled “Bhinnamatha” a political satire written by Sri K.T. Gatti. That was judged asthe Best radioplay of the year at the Karnataka State Level, and I won Programme Excellency Award1998.
InFebruary 2005Iwaspromoted as Programme Executive, which is Class 2 Gazetted Officer grade. Generally, promotions also accompanied transfers. Mangalore station required people with multilingual skills, and I was retained in Mangalore Station for the next 6 years. Iwas handling afew sections independently.
Thethen Station Director, Mr.V.G.
In the year 2009, I produced a musical feature in Kannada based
on the life, achievements and accomplishments of Legendary Konkani singer and artist Wilfy Rebimbus. Wilfy’s interview regarding his life andstruggles, his songs in Konkani and Tulu languages were usedinthisfeature. My hubby, Harry, wrote the script since both shared great rapports. The programme was broadcast on statehook upover13stations. That feature was judged as the second best atthestatelevel in2009.
In 2010, I wrote and produced a feature on the importance of blood donation titled ‘Bindu Bindu Jeeva Sindhu”, featuring a family of 7 blood donors from Mangalore which also got the State Level Programme ExcellencyAward.
My son was in 12th and daughter was in10th . The academic yearhad already begun. Generally, transfers weregivenbetweenMarchandMay every year keeping in view of the academic year and school admissions. For some reason transfers came in mid- June unexpectedly. My friends and wellwishers, including some relatives advised me to go to Bangalore (regional office) or Delhi (Headquarters) to get the transfer cancelled or postponed. When I broke the transfer news to my family, my husband said it is better toacceptthetransferthantryingfor cancellation or postponement because same issue would surface thenextyeartoo.Myfamilydecided that I would be going to Madikeri alone and the rest would continue with their life in Mangalore, and they assured me full co-operation. Justnot assured, they lived upto it. Children did exceptionally well in theirstudies andgot admissions for the next grades of their choice.
Transfer toMadikeri:
My first transfer came in mid- June 2011 toMadikeri station in Kodagu Districtwhichisabeautifulhilltown.
My tenure at Madikeri was very fruitful and rewarding. Plantation crops like coffee, cardamom, pepper, orange and other seasonal fruitswerenewthingstome.Animal husbandry and apiculture (honeybee keeping) were common. I was given charge of farm and health programmes. Hills and valleys,poorroadinfrastructure and limited public transport made it difficult for the public to commute from their far-off estates and remote areastoAkashvani.Itmeant we had to go to their estates and farms.Itraveled toalmost allplaces like Sampaje, Madikeri, Bhagamandala, Chettalli, Virajpete, Kushalanagara, Suntikoppa, Madapura, Somawarpete, Kutta, Gonikoppa, Shanivarasanthe, etc.
I interviewed a lot of farmers and farm labourers about various agricultural activities.
Also produced a special series of programmes on the bird species found in the Coorg region titled “Kodagina Baanadigalu” which means‘Feathered Jewels ofCoorg’.
Despite heavy rains,breezy winds
and biting cold I enjoyed learning new things about plantation crops, harvest, storage, marketing and many more. We celebrated Tribal Festival, and the staff ladies were dressed in Kodava style saree“Kodava podiya”.
BacktoMangalore:
In May 2013 I came back to Mangalore on transfer. Back in Mangalore I was given more administrative responsibilities along withprogramme production. Drama and features, Konkani, English and western musicweretheprogramme sections while Transport was a major administrative section. AIR Mangalore hasarelaytransmitter in BrahmavarinUdupi district whichis about 60 kms from Mangalore. Engineering staff are monitoring and relaying the broadcast from Mangalore. Regularly officers from Mangalore pay visits tooversee the activities. During one such visit, our office vehicle was hit by an over speeding private bus. The owners refused topay the damages. Hence AIRlodged acomplaint against the busowner.Hearingofthecasewent onforquite some time andIhadto attend the sessions. Such incidents
do not take place every other day but when they occur would pose challengestothepeople inhotseat.
I conducted Interactive phone in programmes titled "Kalyanavani" regularly on issues concerning public, grievances redressal, welfare schemes of the central and state governments etc. This weekly onehour show was very popular, and listeners could directly interact with officersandrepresentatives. Deputy commissioner, Police officers, revenuedepartment andincometax department officers, central and state ministers, people's representatives and members of different NGOs participated in such programmes.
Dakshina Kannada district administration wanted me to produce aseries ofprogrammes on the Pilikula Wildlife Sanctuary- Dr. Shivarama Karantha Pilikula Nisargadhama. Each episode highlighted one segment- Wildlife, Arboretum, Lake, Aquarium and boating, Heritage village, cultural centre, Science center and planetarium, etc.
I also produced series of programmes on women's issues andwomen empowerment titled "Bharavaseya Belaku" -RayofHope
for several years starting from January 2014. Glad to state that Prajna counseling centre of Mangalore under the guidance of Prof. Hilda Rayappan collaborated with Akashvani.
Transfer to Bangalore, thecapital station:
Next Transfer came at the most unexpectedtime.Mangalorestation was not well equipped in terms of programme staff.A few were trying to transfer to the destinations of their choice. Lot of studios based, and outdoor broadcasts were happening despite the staff shortage. Suddenly inthe month of April 2019 some transfers were announced, and my name was on top. Andthose who were trying for
the same didn't get. I had never said "No" to any responsibility, assignment or transfer in the past. Hence there was no question of attempting postponement or cancellation.
I was in the far end of my postgraduation in Konknni Literature from Mangalore University. Final exams were approaching. I needed some time to report on the new destination, Bangalore. I put forth my request of a month's time to continue in Mangalore until I completed exams and it was granted. I got relieved from Mangalore. I took a few days of leave to write the exams and reported at AIR Bengaluru in May 2019.
Once again, I was going alone to Bangalore on transfer because children were studying outside Mangalore, and my husband was based in Mangalore running his enterprise. I lived in a PG accommodation foramonth.
I was given charge of Women and children, youth and senior citizens' section. Ihadafreehandtodevise
and produce programmes both in Kannada and English languages. Conducted quiz programme for National Youth Day involving 24 teams with elimination rounds and
thesemifinalsandfinalrounds were broadcast alloverthestate.Ialways focused on people from diverse fields,most ordinary andelite alike.
Good things come as surprise. My son who was pursuing M Tech in Manipalgotplacedwhileinthefinal semester for a multi-National Car manufacturing company (in their R & D department) located in Whitefield. Soon he moved to Bangalore. We hired rented accommodation in Halasur, somewhat convenientforbothofus forcommute.Iwasdrivingacarand atwo-wheeler backinMangalore. It was next to impossible traveling in Bangalore traffic. Luckily for me a metro train service was available, andIgot usedtoit.
The turn of the calendar year came with anunexpected disaster -Covid 19 Pandemic. Radio broadcasting activities continued in different formats to instill courage and confidence among people during the most devastating times. We recorded doctors and health care professionals, counselors and government officials and broadcast the much-needed information and
createdawarenessamong public by way of voice- overs and Interactive sessions. Studio recordings were reduced tothe minimal levels.
Bangalore being the Capital station and the powerhouse provided me ample opportunities whichnoother station could offer. I covered the eventslikevisitoftheVicepresident
Venkaiah Naidu, Global Investors Meet, Bangalore Tech Summit, ODI Cricket Match between India and South Africa, Launching of Chandrayana 2 by ISRO, Prime Minister's visits etc.
After2years Iwasgiven thecharge of the Music section and Vividh BharatiKannadaChannel,bothwere huge responsibilities. The Music Section was not quite active when I took over and it needed rejuvenation. Conducted pending auditions for over 1000 artists in 2
years. Recorded about 35 concerts for the National Programme.
Arranged 6 music concerts before the Invited Audience in different locations of Bangalore for the pleasure ofMusic lovers.
In Vividh Bharati channel I introduced several talk shows interspersed with film Music. Created platforms for performing artists, theatre personalities, nonfilm achievers and so on. Sharing personalized movie watching experience was a popular programme every Friday.
A3memberteamofstaffheadedby me produced a short capsule programme everyday titled "Kannada Kajjaya". 845 episodes of various aspects related to art, culture, architecture, Literature, monuments, industry, education, livestock, anything and everything related tothe language andlandof Kannada.
Multi-lingual Advantage:
A person coming from (coastal) undivided Daksina Kannada district and whose mother tongue is Konkani is well versed in five languages and hence I am comfortable in reading and writing inthefollowing languages. Konkani
Tulu Kannada
English
Hindi
Master’s degree in four disciplines:
I always had a desire to learn and hence I continued studying even after joining AIR. I hold a master’s degree infourdisciplines: Economics from Mangalore University (1988),
English Literature – Karnataka University, Dharwad(1993),
Mass Communication & Journalism – Karnataka Open University, Mysore (2013), Konkani Literature – Mangalore University (2019)
The first and the last are achieved after attending regular classroom sessions while the other two are pursued through distancelearning. For the last master’s degree in Konkani Literature, I enrolled in Mangalore University Evening College at Hampankatta at the age of52.Sometimes Iwouldmissafew early evening classes due to work compulsions and attend the rest of theclassestill9.30pm.Myofficeand studies schedule kept me engaged for 12 hours without a break every single day for2years.
AsCompere:
Compered several multilingual eventsofNationalandInternational level programs including Mandd Sobhann events right from 1990, First World Konkani Convention (1995) Christa Jayanthi 2000, All
India Radio and Chandana Doordarshana (2008, 2017), Vishwa Konkani Kendra,etc.
Delivered motivational speeches and media related topics to students of Mangalore and Bangalore universities, Christ University- Bannerghatta & Yeshvanthpura campuses
Indian Institute of Statistical Science,etc.
Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy, during its Silver Jubilee Year, has published two books written by me regarding some achievers of the Konkani
community.
Was Board of studies member for two terms (6 years) at St Aloysius College, Mangalore.
I was a member of the Jury of Sandesha Awards Committee for several years.
Won prizes in essay, speech and quiz programs during Hindi Day Celebration atAllIndiaRadioalmost every year.
Promotion to theClass 1Grade IBPSOfficer:
Prasar Bharati Corporation was formed in 1997. All India Radio and Doordarshan came under the administation of Prasar Bharati and the formation of this corporation was intended to ensure Autonomy to AIR and DD. But complete autonomy isstill adistantdream.
Prasar Bharati did not take up peiodic departmental promotions and new recruitments. Due to this employees of AIR and DD had to languish in same positions for severalyearsevenaftercrossingthe time limit. Hence from 2005 I remained as a Class 2 Gazetted Officertill 2024. MynextPromotion came in April 2024 to the Class 1 IBPS cadre- Indian Broadcasting Programme Service. Icould proudly write my name as Concepta Fernandes, IBPS. This promotion came as a feather in my cap six
months priortomyretirement. ButI will foreverbe abroadcaster.
I had an eventful career spanning over three and a half decades before superannuation. I grew in age and maturity here under able mentors and senior officers, I was fortunatetoworkinthreeStations –the coastal town Mangalore, hill station- Madikeri and the state capital Bangalore - which are geographically different, culturally rich and linguistically diverse from each other. In each station I took extra care to introduce new talents to different programmes across age- groups. I can mention hundreds of people who did their first radio programme under my guidance. Manyyoung andmiddleaged writers and artists of today consider me as their guide and mentor.Icameacrossacentenarian, an 85-year-old ISRO Engineer who hadworked withDr.Abdul Kalam,a differently abled athlete, a writer who brought her first book at the age of 70 and so on. I came in contactwith great personalities and had multiple opportunities to produce different andmulti-lingual programmes ineachstation.Mylast
tenure at the State capital Bengaluru wasverychallenging and fascinating. Service tothecommunity outside AIR:
Once in 1990, Ireceived acall from FrHenryD’Souza,inviting metohis office. He was the Director of the Sandesha Foundation for Culture andEducation. His officewas in the closevicinityofAIRinNanthoorand there were ample opportunities for interaction with him afterwards... Sandesha students would participate in radio programmes periodically. He is a gracious host. Over the conversation he informed me about UNDA-OCIC,which isan Association of Catholic Communicators, worldwide. He expressed his desire to induct me into the India Unit. I participated in the Annual Convention of UNDAOCIC (India), held in Pilar Fathers Campus, Goa and was made a member. He made sure that I got involved in various activities of Sandesha and of UNDA- OCIC (India)inthecoming years.
DuringnextfewyearsIcontinuedto be a member but was unable to contribute much to UNDA- OCIC (India) in successive years due to professional and family compulsions. I was and am very much a part of Sandesha team in various activities. Here I met lot of people from other Christian denominations. We would collaborate with the members of CSI, Karnataka Theological College, YMCA and so on. Over the years I was involved in various activities of Sandesha.Ididget opportunities to compere Sandesha Awards year after year, read citations of awardees and so on. Bigger things were yet to come. I am bestowed with the honor of being a Jury member of Sandesha Awards for differentterms.SuccessiveDirectors of Sandesha also have accorded warm treatment, and we have worked asateam.
Myfamily:
As said earlier I am married to Herald Reginald Alva (popularly known as H. R. Alva) of Pangala Parish which is now in Udupi Diocese. He was the President of Catholic Youth Movement (for 3 years) and Secretary of Pastoral Council (for 5 years) of the undivided Diocese of Mangalore. He worked for Mangalore ChemicalsandFertilizers Ltd.(MCF), Panambur for 12 years, resigned from the employment and started his own firm – Maria Advertisers (Media Advertising Agency) and running successfully for the past 30 years. He is a Postgraduate in Political Science, Graduate in Law (LL. B), and a Chemical Engineering Diploma holder. He is a regular writer since his younger days. We have been married for nearly 33 years now. Wehavetwochildren –Harsha,who isMTechfromMIT,Manipal(MAHE) and Heera, MBA from Mumbai University. BythegraceofGod both have studied well, pursued some sportsandenjoyedswimming. With their own merits and accomplishments, they found
suitable jobs towards the end of their studies. Both are employed in Bangalore. As a family we have traveled far and wide to different states within the country and a few overseas destinations. I have had a fewindividualtripstodifferentcities of India – Delhi, Lucknow, Bhubaneshwar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Thiruvananthapuram, Kodaikanal, Pondichery, etc related to my work and month-long vacations in U.K. (2008) and in Germany (2009).
Unconditional support and cooperation oftheimmediate familyis of paramount importance for any achievement at the personal and professional front, be it a man or a woman and more so for a professional woman. Whatever I have been able to accomplish is realizedwith sacrificeofmy parents and my siblings and later my husband and children. When I was leaving early morning and coming home late after attending outdoor broadcasts or when I was compering big events my family tolerated me.Sometimes Harry had
to stay home with children when they were small so that I could go. As the children were growing up, they managed on theirown even in studies, without bothering usmuch. I am sure the family’s support and sacrifice ensured that Icould put in my best. Luckily, we were able to pull along even during minor ailments or difficult situations. I hope that every individual gets a good support system in whatever they wouldlike toachieve.
My colleagues in different stations too extended cordial support at various levels except a few who added thatspicetostrengthen me.
AtthisjunctureIwouldliketothank each one- my family, friends, colleagues, artists and talkers at radiostations-whocrossedmypath inlife’sjourney.
Andit’stime tosign out. Yours Sincerely,
Concepta Fernandes
Two Seasons:
The month of December ushers in two important seasons in the Church’sLiturgicalCalendar:Advent Season and Christmas Season. The former is preparation for the latter. The Liturgical Year begins with the Advent Season. The new liturgical yearbegins with the first Sunday of Advent which falls on 1st December 2024. TheLiturgical Readings forthe
Season of Advent deals with preparing the way of the Lord who comes. The basic message is to watch and pray, be vigilant, foryou donotknow thedaynorthetimeof hiscoming. SinceAdvent recalls the Lord’s First Coming as well as represents the time of expectation of the Lord’s Second Coming in glory at the end of the world, the Church wants the faithful to cultivate an attitude of expectation
andhope andbeready tomeet the Lord whenever he comes. “Be on your guard; let not your hearts be weighed down with a life of pleasure, drunkenness and worldly cares, lest that day catch you suddenly as a trap…… But always watch and pray, that you may be able to escape all that is bound to happenandtostandbefore theSon ofMan”(Lk. 21:34-36).
In preparation for Christmas which celebratestheFirstComingofChrist when he took human form andwas born ofthe Virgin Mary, theChurch wantsthefaithfultopayheedtothe words of the Prophet John the Baptist: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make his path straight. The valleys will be filled, and the mountains and hills will be made low. Everything crooked will be made straight and the rough paths smooth; and every mortal will see thesalvation ofGod” (Lk. 3:5-6).
intense spiritual preparation before Christmas. Therefore, this special seasonoffourweeks issetapart for this preparation. This season is an incentive and motivation for us to ponder and meditate on the mystery of Incarnation andthrough prayer, penance andgood works to spiritually prepare for this joyful Feast.
St. John expresses this profound mystery of the Incarnation in the following words in the Prologue of his Gospel: “In the beginning was the Word. And the Word was with God, and the Word was God…….. And the Word became flesh; he pitched his tent among us” (Jn. 1 + 14).
Basically, the Lord as well as the Church wants us to engage in
Thisistheprofoundmystery thatwe celebrate during Christmas. It is the mystery of God’s love. Because of God’s infinite love for human beings, He sent His only begotten Son into this world. The Son who always existed from eternity with the Father and the Holy Spirit, the
Word and Wisdom of the Father, took human form and became a humanbeingjustlikeusinallthings but sin. What a magnanimous act on the part of God! God becomes man. He becomes small. He becomes ababy. Hebecomes poor. Hebecomes aslave.
St. Paul expresses this mystery and unfathomable truth in his Letter to the Philippians: “Though being divine in nature, he did not claim equality with God but emptied himself, taking on the nature of a servant, made in human likeness, andin appearance found asa man. He humbled himself by being obedient todeath, even death on a cross” (Phil2:6-8). Thisisthe extent to which God humbles himself to serve human beings and make it possible for them to enjoy life in heaven. Christmas has become a universal celebration. But with all such developments, there arises the danger of commercialization. We
should be careful not to commercialize this feast so full of spiritual significance. The real Christmas should touch our human hearts so profoundly as to live by the sublime teaching of Christ and emulate the values enshrined in his preaching. Love, compassion, forgiveness, justice, truthfulness, purity, service, self-sacrifice, etc.are the essence of his teaching. The world needs these values today more than ever before. The culture of violence and death needs to be replacedbyacivilization ofloveand respectforlife.Attitudesofhateand revenge must give way to respect and tolerance. Excessive consumerism and hedonism must be tempered with self-sacrifice and service.
Wecelebrated theWorldDayofthe Pooron17th November 2024. Itwas a day to remind us not to be indifferent tothescandalofpoverty but toreachout tothepoor intheir need. Advent and Christmas are wonderful occasions when we can help the poor andbring joy in their lives.Whenwehelpthepoor, infact wehelpJesusChrist andifwefailto
help them, we fail to help Jesus himself, for he identifies himself with the poor (cf. Mt.25:31–46). Let us prepare ourselves spiritually to meet the Lord whenever and however he comes. I wish you a fruitfulAdventSeasonandaBlessed Christmas.
Every year before the Christmas
† Gerald John Mathias BishopofLucknow
Festival, 3L Friends provide new clothes to the poorest 3L students and their parents/ guardians. This year some were provided new clothes; others are in the waiting list. Photos of a few are attached here.
Eventhepoorest ofthepoor have
the right of dignity
towearnew clothes atleastonce ayear.
Pratapananda Naik, SJ
3Lcoordinator
Heritage Festival 2024 -
New Visions of the Past
A Heritage Festival slated for November 30 & December 1 as a start for ongoing programmes, organised by the District Administration at the old DC building, a structure with a rich historical legacy inthe city nearthe State Bank and Vivanta Hotel, got off to a roaring success today. The DC office is being moved to a new location, the oldest buildings are preserved in theiroriginal form and red colour. The artistic structures remain to this day as testament to thedistrict’s hoaryhistory.
Once known as the Collector’s
Office during British rule (17991947), it housed the administrative hub for South Kanara (Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Kasargod districts) in the British era Madras Presidency. Italsofunctionedasthe mainofficeforBritishofficersbefore India’s Independence. Even after
Independence, the deputy commissioner’s (DC) office operated from this historic base. The plaque at the gate reads "OLD DC OFFICE BUILDING: The present premises where the old DC's
(District Collector's) office building is established belonged to the Jain Banga family under the patronage of the Vijayanagara Empire. It was the palace of the Banga Rulers. Converted to the Administrative office of the British in the region. The building has more than 400 yearsofhistory. Priortothe1780s it was in possession of the Mysore rulers of whom Tipu Sultan was popular. When the British conquered Tipu's lands in 1799 it came into the possession of the British Administration headed by Major Sir Thomas More the first British Collector of on July 8, 1799."
To celebrate the long-deserved history and raise awareness among the public and students about the
rich heritage and history of the building, aweek-long celebration is beingobserved, from Saturday November 30. The schedule for November 30 includes a painting competition for students of government schools at 10 am, where participants can depict any ancient memorial buildings of their choice. At 2 pm, an architecture competition for college students will focus on the interior and exterior views of the building, encouraging ideas to enhance its aesthetic appeal. Traditional walks are scheduled from 11 am to 12 noon andagainfrom 3pm to4pm. An open interaction session followed by a prize distribution ceremony willtakeplaceat4:30pm, while a musical programme will
begin at6pm. Anartexhibition will beheldfrom10amto6pmonboth November30andDecember1. The DC office plans to host various activities attheoldDCbuilding and its campus to attract more tourists, according to Karnataka Official sources.
This event was heldthis morning at 10AMby thepresent DCMr.Mullai Muhilan amid fanfare and
traditional tasteful 'Dolla Kunita" by a group of Alva's College. Mini Heritage Walks were conducted. There was an enthusiastic response to the programmes and the same will
continue tomorrow December 1, 2024. The highlight of urban themed drawings by senior and juniorstudentsandintheafternoon the architecture competitions were well patronised and prizes allotted. This evening's entertainment "Sur Sagar" with fashion Bands at the venue was a big attraction. Indeed, such are the exhibitions that cultured Mangaloreans enjoyandparticipate inandmust be frequent.
-IvanSaldanha-Shet.
(With Inputs from Official Organizers)
B
ishop John Rodrigues Appointed as the Coadjutor Archbishop of Bombay Bangalore, November 30, 2024 (CCBI): The Holy Father Pope Francis has appointed Bishop John Rodrigues (57) as Coadjutor Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Bombay (India), transferring him from the Diocese of Poona. This
appointment was made on November 2024. Bishop John Rodrigues was born on August 21, 1967,intheArchdioceseofBombay. He completed his studies in Philosophy andTheology atSt.Pius X College, Goregaon, Mumbai. He holds abachelor’s degree inscience (Physics) from Mumbai University and a Licentiate in Dogmatic Theology from the Pontifical Lateran University, Rome. He was ordained a priest on April 18, 1998, for the Archdiocese of Bombay. He was the assistant parish priest at St. Michael's in Mahim (1998-1999); Secretary to the Archbishop of Bombay (1999-2000); Professor of Dogmatic Theology (2002-2013) andDeanof Studies (2011-2013) at St.PiusXCollege,Goregaon. Hewas appointed astheAuxiliaryBishopof Bombay on May 15, 2013, and ordained Bishop on June 29, 2013. HewastransferredtotheDioceseof Poona onMarch25, 2023.
-Dr.Stephen Alathara
Points to Ponder, December 2024
Market Bubbles of the 20th Century
1.TheGreat Crash of1929
The US, an erstwhile colony, was a rapidly growing economy in the early part of 20th century. The convergence of innovation, economic growth, leverage and wild speculation coupled with regulatory inaction resulted in Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA)moving upfrom79.80 in end 1921 to 381.17 on September 3,1929. During the period, nominal GDP growth was 5.3% CAGR (Compounded Annual Growth Rate). But the benchmark index (DJIA) recorded a staggering growth of22% CAGR.
However, a handsome growth of11% intheaggregate profits
of the companies seemed to justify doubling of the valuation level from aPE(Price to Earning) of 10 at the end of 1921to20bySeptember 1929. The problem though was that theratioofcorporate profits to GDP had risen to an unsustainable 10.4% of GDP driven by very high profit margins. A market at peak PE ratio coupled with peak profit margins (what Jeremy Grantham called the “double jeopardy”) was a bubble waitingtobe pricked. Onblack Monday (October 28), DJIA closed 13% andthe nextday it fell another 12% on very high volumes. Confidence was now broken. The worst bearmarket in human history did not just impact investors but had dragged down theeconomy as well which had declined by nearly 40% from 1929 to1932.
Bank failures were rampant, unemployment was high and extensive with a consequent collapse of demand. The bear phase continued for another three years during which DJIA bottomed at 41.22, a crippling fall of 89% from its peak in 1929. The recovery was long andpainful.DJIAsurpassedthe 1929 peak only in November 1954.Thereasonsforthecrash.
John Kenneth Galbraith in his book TheGreat Crash analyses the factors that brought about the Great Depression. Among others, he points to the extreme inequality with only a few people controlling the means of production as the prime reason for economic collapse.
2. TheJapanese AssetPrice Bubble(1989-90)
Supported by American aid, Japan expeditiously rebuilt its shattered economy afterthe II world War and was regarded as an economic miracle and exportpowerhouse. ButtheUS
had emerged as the most powerful economy in the post war world and between 1980 and 1985, the dollar had appreciated over 40% against other major currencies. This resulted in the US imports surging while exports became uncompetitive because of the high value of its currency. This led to what is known as the Plaza Accord in September 1985. Under this accord four other major trading partners, including Japan, were to intervene in the forex markets tobring down the valueof the dollar. This was done to prevent the US from turning into a protectionist economy. Action under the PlazaAccord caused massive 45% appreciation in Yen vis-à-vis the dollar in 1986 and Japan went into a recession as
corporates were hit badly by plummeting exports tothe US. Bankof Japan (BOJ -Japanese central bank) and the Government responded in tandem with expansionary fiscal and easy monetary policies to address the slowdown. This resulted in a massive supply of cheap money and hardworking people known fortheirdiligent saving habits were lured into speculatinginequitiesandreal estate. Between 1984 and 1989, theJapanesebenchmark index, Nikkei 225 rose by over 300% and the PE ratio had crossed60!
The real estate maniac turned into a beast of its own. The profits flowing from the bubble in the equity market further fueled the property prices. At the peak of the bubble,valueofproperty stock in Japan was worth four times thatoftheUS.Inhindsightone can see the depth of the madnesswhenonetherealizes that the landmass of the US is
26 times that of Japan. BOJ increased the rates sharply, though belatedly, toarrest the speculation. In just one year, therateswentupfrom2.5%to 6% and the equity bubble spluttered, deflating the property bubble along with it.
Nikkei 225 lostmore than50% of its value by 1992 from a peak of 38996 in December 1989. Itmanaged toclawback to the 1989 highs only in February 2024. Nikkei 225 teaches a hard lesson on why valuations matter.
3.TheDotcomMania(1999 –2000)
In the US the 1990s, like the 1920s, was a decade of unprecedented innovation and was marked by pervasive optimism with the country coming uptrumps inthe four-
decade old cold war. The advent of internet threw up numerous and increasing possibilities and as the “dotcom” technology evolved atarapidpace,investor frenzy too gathered momentum. The information technology and telecommunication heavy Nasdaq Composite rallied 400% infiveyears toapeakof 5048 on March 10, 2000 with its PEratiooscillating between absurd levels of 175 and 200. Anything with “dotcom” on it was enough to ensure a successful IPO and a bumper listing. Companies with no revenue or just business plans with fancy projections and favourable discount rates for their cashflows got a phenomenal response in the IPO market. By now the debunked Japanesespeculator who chased useless parcels of landatobscene prices seemed to be a trifle more rational when compared to the Americans chasing “dotcom” castlesinthe air!
The bubble got pricked in March 2000 and Nasdaq Composite bottomed out at 1114 in October 2002, a fallof 78% from its peak. The ongoing massive wealth destruction ushered in a recession in 2001. The implosion of giant corporations such as Enron and WorldCom with their accounting scandals further deepened and extended the downtrend in the markets, despite the Fed aggressively cutting interest rates. It is a sobering fact that of the Magnificent Seven of the time – Microsoft, Intel, Cisco, Qualcomm, Oracle, JDS Uniphase and Sun Microsystems – only Microsoft has managed to create value for the shareholders from those bubble levels. But this is not the end of the story of bubbles. In the very firstdecadeofthe21stcentury the world faced yet another bubble, more devious and convoluted than any, that it
prompted the Oracle of Omaha, the redoubtable Warren Buffet, to state that derivatives are weapons of masswealthdestruction! More onthat inthenextedition.
Mangalore's iconic 106-year-old Ladies Club on lighthouse Hill (opp Aloysius University) launched the Joy of approaching Christmas with its traditional culture "The Christmas Bazaar Day" on 23rd November2024eveningandwhata success it was fora cross section of the community. This event is held every year,anentertainment forthe Children oftheCity,theproceeds of which are utilized for the education of deserving girl children.
The event at the Mangalore Ladies Club grounds tastefully decorated was indeed adding to the atmosphere. Therewere avariety of stallsadorningthegrounds withthe Christmas theme and colours. The venue was well lit and had the Christmas aura. There was an array of food and other items patronized by the participants at the venue radiating warmth and camaraderie.
The financial support of the sponsors, Mandovi Motors, Jyothi
Advertisers, M. Pais and Sons, Eye Zone Opticals, Village Restaurant and an Anonymous donor without whom this event would not have been possible. The event was anchored by Ms. Rochelle whowith her own ideas and style of explanation kept the Children engaged and engrossed. She also included the adults who were present, with spot games.
The Children enjoyed the games that they participated in and it was ajoy toseethem vibrant andfullof energy, their eyes shining with the expectation of the king of the
seasons CHRISTMAS. Musically MunitasettheStageonfirewithher 40 students who rocked the stage with Christmas Carols and songs. Munita Veigas Rao is the founder and recipient of 2024 Karnataka Rajyotsava Award who nurtures youngsters and develops theirconfidenceandsingingtalents.
The Evening then proceeded to showcase a performance by the MSIJ brothers, hailing from far off regions ofIndia,livinginMangalore for their mission is the church was indeed an inspiration to all. They depicted Humanity and the relationship withGodwhichwasapt for the occasion and upcoming Christmas season. The MSIJ
brothers also donned the Santa’s Caps and the children were thrilled to see 2 Santas who distributed sweets and little toys to them.
Twohousie rounds were conducted atthe endoftheprogramme which was enjoyed by all; it was an evening of joy, happiness and entertainment both forthe children and adults present which brought Christmas closer and made the air fill with JOY.
About the Iconic 'Ladies Club' Mangalore:
One of the old Mangalore's prime landmarks "LadiesClub”,founded in 1918 is 106 yearsold now; dedicated forwomen ofthetimesin the social circuits, but italso served many suffering women of Mangalore and is yet seen as a social and utility for the cause of women. Over the last many years thousands recollect this place for
the many Christmas/New Year and other social functions and activities organised over the decades. Mrs. Lucy Sreshta not only founded this club but was Hon secretary and devoted her life to the institution until her death in 1960. Her pioneering efforts also resulted in setting up a 'Club Store' selling various kinds of products made by local women - particularly pickles, preserves and provisions which were a boon to all. She set up tennis, sports andindoor games for the members and guests. She obtained the present site from the Government of the time and was responsible for construction of the building completed in 1923, which isstill solidwith historicity......
The club has a big number of members andactivitiesarereserved
only for members and invited guests. The administrative set upof this institution is state-of-the-art andthings work like clockwork with care. A monthly bulletin for members is published detailing the current activities. It lets out the premises for selected weddings on strict understanding. Activities are mostly social service to help the marginalized, entertain andeducate lady members and support welfare activities; National events and different festivals celebrated are a big draw. It is indeed a matter of pride that this august club is now 106 years old. With Mangaluru city hurtling towards the development ofa'Smart city’,the question onthe minds of people is how things will change - change is the only
permanent possibility and needs acceptance in a selective mindset for the new generations of Mangaloreans.
-IvanSaldanha-Shet (With
Inputsfrom ClubCommittee)
MCC BANK INAUGURATES
AT BELTHANGADY
The 18th Branch of MCC Bank Ltd., wasinaugurated atBelthangady, on Sunday, 24th November,2024. The new branchislocatedon the
ground floor of Vaibhav Arcade, Near Church Road, Belthangady Highway, Belthangady.
Thenewbranchwasinauguratedby
thechairman, SahakaraRatnaMr. AnilLobo.
V. Rev. Fr. Walter Dmello, Parish Priest, Holy Redeemer Church, Belthangady, blessedthe new premises.
Safe Room was inaugurated by V.Rev. Fr. Abraham Patteril, Procurator of Belthangady Diocese and the E-Stamping facility was inaugurated by Mr Henry Lobo, Chairman of Belthangady Credit
Catholic Co-operative Society. Mr Anil A.J, President, Syrian Catholic Multipurpose Co-operative Society Ltd, Belthangady was the guest of honour.
The inaugural programme was presided over by the Chairman, ‘Sahakara Ratna’MrAnilLobo.
TheProgramme began with a prayer songconductedby theBank Staff.
‘Sahakara Ratna’ Mr Anil Lobo, Chairman of the Bank, in his presidential address thanked the institutions and the public in the
area for their help andcooperation during the visit of the staff for marketing the Bank’s products and services for the branch. He sought
their cooperation and support to enable the branch to start earning the profit and serve the society within ayearofits inauguration. He requested them to introduce their
help the branch in its path of
services that are being offered by other private and public sector banks. He informed the gathering that the deposits of the Bank are
guaranteedby DICGCasthebankis regulated by the Reserve Bank of India.Thebankiscomingwithmore digital banking facilities such as Google PayandUPIpaymentssoon. He requested the public to avail benefits of NILservice charges that are provided for account holders withanaveragebalanceofRs.1lakh in their accounts. He thanked the localpublic fortheirwarmreception andforattendingtheprogramme in large numbers.
V.Rev.Fr. Walter Dmello, while addressing the gathering, congratulatedthemanagement and staffforproviding customerfriendly
ambience at Belthnagady and invoked God’s blessings on future endeavors of the bank. He also wished that the bank would be a boon to the sections of society, especially the poor and the downtrodden.
Asarecognition ofthenobleservice rendered, the heads of following institutions weregivendonationsby theBankfrom theCharity Fund.
1. Seon Ashram Trust, Gandibagilu, fortaking care of the mentally and physically challenged persons and orphans.
2. Fr. L. M. Pinto Healthcare Centre and Charitable Trust, for providing excellent health care services at an affordable cost.
V. Rev. Fr Abraham Pattiril, Procurator of Belthangady Diocese, who was the chief guest for the programme, while addressing the gathering during the occasion, I appreciated the Bank for encouraging the institutions and people engaged in the noble cause of service to humanity unlike other
Banks located in the vicinity. He sought the co-operation of the publicforthegrowth ofthebank,so thatthebankwillbeabletoworkfor the welfare of society. We wished for the all-round development of theBank.
The following achievers of the Belthangady area, who have been awarded by the government and other institutions for their achievement intheirrespective field and service to society, were honored with memento and floral bouquet in recognition of their services to the society and extra ordinary achievement against all adversity.
1. Sri Charmady Hasanabba – for his social service especially helping people injured in the road accidents and who are affectedby naturalcalamities.
2. Sri Cashmir Menezes - for implementing innovative ideas in agriculture/horticulture and contribution in the field of Education.
3. Dr Venugopal Sharma – for being a people’s doctor
providing medical services to the common people at nominal cost ofRs.10/-
On behalf of the recipients, Ms. SabithaMonis,thankedtheBankfor honouring and wished the Bank all successinyears tocome.
Mr Seethram Shetty, owner of the premises andMrKarthik Kiran, Civil Engineer, were honoured for providing the premises and the excellent work done at the new premises, respectively.
The new customers who have openedtheiraccountsinthebranch were honoured. The birthday of, MrsSavithaByaptist,,oneofthefirst customers of the branch was also celebrated during theprogramme.
The Chairman, Mr Anil Lobo, honored the vice presidents and secretaries of Parish Pastoral councils of various churches in the Belthangady region for their support andhelpinreaching outto thelocal people.
The staff members of the new branch were introduced to the audience by the General Manager, MrSunil Menezes.
The Chairman honoured the chief guests and guest of honour with memento asatoken ofgratitude.
The vice chairman, Mr Jerald Jude D’silva, Mr David Dsouza, Mr Melwyn Vas, Mr J.P. Rodrigues,Mr Anil Patrao, Mr Roshan Dsouza, Dr Freeda Dsouza and Mrs Irene Rebello, DrGerald Pinto,Elroy Kiran
Crasto, Mr C.G. Pinto and Mr Sushanth Saldanha, Mr Alwyn P. Monteiro, were present on the occasion.
Mr Vincent Lasrado, Director of the Bank, welcomed the guest and gathering. Mr Sharun C. Pinto, Branch Manager of Belthangady rendered voteofthanksandMrAvil Moras,compered theprogramme.
Blue Brass Band, Badyar, enhanced thebeauty ofthe celebration.
Christ the King Feast and Solemn Eucharistic
Procession in the Diocese of Shimoga
November 25, 2024: The InterDiocesan Celebration of the Christ the King Feast and the Eucharistic Procession was held with great devotion and spiritual grandeur on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at the
Sacred Heart Cathedral in Shimoga. The event drew many the faithful, priests, and religious from the Diocese of Shimoga, the SyroMalabar Diocese of Bhadravathi, andthe Syro-Malankara Dioceseof
Puttur.
The celebratory event commenced at 4:30 PM with the Rosary, led by Fr. Santosh D'Cunha. This was followed by the Holy Eucharist at 5 PM, the launch of the Shimoga
Diocese YouTube channel, and the EucharisticProcession.
The main celebrant was Most Rev. Dr. Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of the Diocese of Shimoga. He was joined by Most Rev.Dr.Joseph
Arumachadath, Bishop of the Diocese of Bhadravathi, and Most Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Makarios Kalyil, Bishop of Puttur, who delivered an inspiring homily. A significant number of priests from all three rites concelebrated the
Holy Mass.
Unveiling of the Diocesan YouTube Channel: Fr Simon Pinto succinctly outlined the impetus behind the creation of the diocesan YouTube channel,preceding therelease of
original compositions by various priests of the Diocese under the collective title "Rakshane."FrVinuth Kumar, the communications director for the diocese, conceptualized and designed the YouTubechannel.OnNovember 24,
2024, Most Reverend Dr. Francis SerraoSJ,BishopofShimoga, inthe esteemed presence of Dr. Joseph Arumachadath, Bishop of Bhadravathi, Dr. Mar Geevegis Makarios Kalyil, Bishop of Puttur, and Monsignor Stany D'Souza,
officiallyinaugurated the YouTube channel.
After the Mass, the Eucharistic Procession began its journey from
the cathedral premises, winding through thestreets ofShimoga City.
BishopDr.Joseph Arumachadath of Bhadravathi carriedthe Monstrance
inabeautifullydecoratedvehicle.Fr.
Roman Pinto, Fr. Santhosh Pereira, andDn.NishanthD'Costaledprayer sessions during the procession to maintain a devout and prayerful atmosphere. The procession culminated with a short time of adoration, led by Fr. Roman Pinto,
followed by a solemn Eucharistic Blessingbestowed upon thefaithful by Bishop Arumachadath in the Cathedral.Numerous altarboys and girls from various parishes actively participated in both the Eucharist andthe procession.
Msgr Very Rev. Fr Stany D’Souza, the parish priest and Dean of the Carmel Deanery, expressed his heartfelt gratitude toeveryone who contributed to making the celebration spiritually enriching, meaningful, andsuccessful.
KANNADA – NAGARI LIPI ORDEAL WITH SAHITYA AKADEMI (19932009)
When I was the President of the Konkani Writers’ Forum (KWF) in the years 2008 to 10, I took a bold decision to fight against theNagariLipiissue with the Sahitya Akademi . Mr. Vallie Vagga, the former President of KWF handed over a file to me, which he had maintained, and it contained all the correspondence made by him onlipi issue with the Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi from 1993 to 2009.
I took his file, which was neatly filed with heap of papers, which I thought will put more light on problems created byNagari people and confronted by our Kannada lipi writers.
Here are the letters written or correspondence written by Mr Valli Vagga to Sahitya Akademi (SA) which reveal how it is functioning. Even great Kannada litterateur, Mr. Ananthmurthy, then President of Sahitya Akademi from Karnataka, was also helpless against the decisions taken by the Advisory Board for Konkani language. Then who is behind this Advisory Board? Who is making rulings for the Konkani language at Sahitya
Akademi? Is Konkani language in the hands of some
vested interest people?
(tobecontinued…)
Manu Pillai: "There are No Heroesor Villains in History" (O Heraldo, 30/11/2024)
Religion and politics are an especially volatile mixinSouth Asia, cleaved apart so painfully based on religion in 1947, and roiled on the samelinesagaininthe21stcentury, as majoritarianism surges on all sides of the post-Partition borders. Here in India, the main divide remains Hindu-Muslim, with painful consequences – from casual intimidation to ethnic cleansing –playing out in different locations However, in recent years, Sikhs and Sikhism have also been targeted as
“anti-national”, and Goa has experienced many silly and childish provocations about Catholics and Catholicism, including recurring absurdities about whocanandcan’t be considered Goencho Saib.
These slurs haven’t yet added upto much, and it would be unwise to overreact. However, the increasing conflation of myth and history by the state is an unhealthy trend. As the distinguished political scientist Niraja Gopal Jayal reminds us: “In
effect, it is an attempt to construe Indian citizenship as faith-based, in consonancewiththeideaofaHindu majoritarian nation,ofwhichHindus arenaturalcitizenswhileMuslims,in this view, properly belong to Pakistan or Bangladesh. Perfecting this congruence is the object of the new project of citizenship.”
Catholics in Goa – and Christians in India – have not been primary targets in this scenario, and in fact Joseph Francis Pereira – a Pakistani ofGoan origin – wasone ofthefirst beneficiaries of the new Citizenship Amendment Act, which allows Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Christians and Buddhists (but not Muslims) from the neighboring countries to become Indian citizens if they entered before 2014.
Yet, there are warning signs, as the senior academic Peter Ronald de Souza shared in a recent column inIndianExpress : “A few days ago, duringanargument (inaWhatsApp group), I was told to "go back to Portugal". Not one to take such abuse without a fight, I responded andaskedmyadversaryto“goback to Afghanistan”. He was outraged.
"I’m not from Afghanistan," he roared. "Well, I’m not from Portugal," I said. Two things come together in this brief exchange that are worth thinking about. My name and his outrage. For him I was obviously the outsider and, equally obviously, he was the insider. For him were self-evidently true. In this exchange, my argumentativeness faced his righteous anger. He said he was confronting me because I was evil. That we went to school together more than half a century ago did not matter.”
Palpably upset, de Souza writes “I musthonestly admitIwassurprised at the vitriol. What began as a discussion on an Indian festival, soon descended into a toxic spat watched by others who, in their silence, appeared to endorse his viewsthatitwasinadmissible forme to talk about things Indian, especially Indian culture.What didI know? And who was I anyway? An Indian on probation! Now I know whatDraupadi musthave feltinthe assembly when she asked the custodians of dharma her question. Theydidnotanswer.Theyremained silent.”
“Who belongs? Who does not belong? Whatkind ofstate is being re-engineered by Hindu nationalism, and where did the historical impetus come from?” Precisely when it is needed most to helpaddress thesequestions, Manu Pillai’s lucid, brilliant new Gods, GunsandMissionaries:TheMaking oftheModernHinduIdentityis an invaluable primer on India’s encounter with Western colonialism, and “the context in which Hindu nationalism –Hindutva, sodominant now inIndia – found itsraison d'être . [It is] a survey of400yearsatmost – aspan that supplies the historical setting andmuchoftheemotional stimulus empowering present-day Hinduism.”
All serious students of Goan history are strongly urged to read Gods, GunsandMissionaries forthewayit begins alone, a deft and masterly treatment of colonialism and conversion in the Estado da Índia. This brave young author – he was bornin1990 – pullsnopunches,but also refrains from cheapshots. This clear-eyed, sure-footed approach is both refreshing and absolutely
required, because the subject is suchapotentmixofhistory,religion and politics. Here is just one passage, for flavour: “the Portuguese came into everyday contact with Hindus, armed with scarce knowledge but copious prejudgement. The encounter took barely a generation to turn violent. One factor was that the colonizer’s rigid religiosity had grown stiffer still in reaction to the anti-Catholic Reformation occurring in Europe. That is, with the emerging Protestant movement accusing the Catholic church of perverting the faith, Catholic powers hada special necessity to demonstrate unequivocal Christian credentials. And here, their newly acquired Indian enclaves offered a parade ground, packed as they were with devil-worshipping pagans.”
Tobesure,allthisisfamiliarground to historians, but serious scholarship about these episodes is almost never knitted together, understood or presented with as much panache and storytelling flair asGods,GunsandMissionaries . Via email, Pillai told me that “history in our country--and perhaps
elsewhere too is not merely a rational, academic inquiry into the past. It is an emotional, political affair.MyveryfirstbookinvitedaRs 5croredefamation notice,soIknow the risks and perils involved in presenting complexities from the past. In this context, historicising religious identities can provoke all kindsofresponses."Thetruth"pales here in comparison with how people interpret history to create "their truth" in the present or as groups; tofindmeaning by reading history acertain way. This is true of all communities and identities everywhere in the world. But today we are also seeing an active cultivation of animosity by exacerbating elements of divergence in these narratives. So, when writing a book on modern religious identity formation, yes there is a fear that some of its contents can be hijacked. Similarly, one can also be "cancelled" by different sides for not reinforcing their respective ideological positions. One chapter in the book might annoytheLeftandpleasethe Right. Another might achieve the reverse. But this is the risk of doing what I do today. One can't do
history if worried about reactions. Even when one isaware of the risks involved in these reactions.”
Asthe topic isespecially relevant in this Exposition year, I asked Pillai what to make of the paradox of “Saint”FrancisXavier–anunstinting zealot who believed in the superiority of his faith – becoming converted after death into an allinclusive Indian holy man, who is addressed by pilgrims from every religion to answer their prayers. He responded thoughtfully: "We must alwaysviewhistoricalfiguresintheir time and context. Xavier and his proselytising work stemmed from a vision of the world that emerged from his cultural background, the history of his part of the world, his education etc. The responses of his brown interlocutors were also similarly influenced. There is also in this equation the political power of the Portuguese and their own imperial goals, which skewed the field in favour of one side over another. We should be able to speak of this transparently while also recognising that historical dynamics also evolve and change. The same Portuguese state's
attitudes shifted over time; the memory ofXavier andhis work also changed. These too are real historical processes.History isfullof contradictions. In the battle between "sides" today we can lose sight of this. There are no heroes and villains in history. Often the same characters in different contexts can look heroic or villainous, depending on the prism, the location of the viewer, and so on.”
Pillaiacknowledges thatitisdifficult to have honest and open discussions about historicalreligious-political issues in India at the moment, but they must occur nonetheless: “I think conversations help. Remember that outside of certainpoliticalconstituencies,most human beings can take a sensible view of things. It is this mature, reasonable tendency that must be cultivated. By reacting to others, and their setting of the terms, we play into their game. Instead, we must engage in dialogue, speak of Xavier the complex, sometimes "negative" figure while also recognising the equally historical phenomenon of Xavier as he came
to be recognised and reinterpreted inthesesamecommunities, not just by Catholics but also Hindus. I always say that most things in history arenot acaseof"either/or". Thewordwemustembraceis"and". But this is admittedly easier said than done. I don't know if I have a solution other than dialogue, and engagement ingood faith.”
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We Are the Champions
-By: Molly Pinto.
Somebody once said we were meant to be happy
Isn't it ironical that we're welcomed with a slap on our butt Born with a bottomless pit, that needs continuous fueling Of Course you're getting the picture, it has to be earned
This whole universe is striving towards something From the largest to the smallest, everyone is seeking to find Food shelter and once that's earned, endless comforts
The human civilization as we know it, is spiraling out of control
Somebody once said we were meant to be happy
But they forgot to mention after suffering hunger and loss Like a carrot before a horse, man keeps chasing a dream
But creating weaklings along the way who cry foul at every loss
This is the Olympics of life, there's no place for slackers Everyone has a role, and none less worthy than the other The tailor, the sweeper, the ball boy and the champion All completes this framework in this arena of life -By: Molly Pinto. Mangalore.
Adavi Alert Foundation presents a canvas of Bhogeshwara to St Aloysius University
Adavi Alert Foundation (AAF) recently conducted a significant event at St Aloysius College (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, as part of its on-going
conservation efforts. The foundation presented a canvas of Bhogeshwara, the iconic tusker, to the institution in appreciation of their steadfast support for wildlife conservation initiatives.
The Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Praveen Martis, S.J., received the canvas, accompanied by distinguished attendees, including Dr Alwyn D'Sa (Registrar), Dr Ronald Nazareth (Registrar), Dr Ishwara Bhat
(Director), Dr Asha Abraham (Director), Dr Loveena Lobo (Director), Dr Charles Furtado (Director), MrKiran VatiK, Assistant Professor and Mrs Seema Maria DCunha, Personal Secretary to the ViceChancellor.
As part of this initiative, copies of the book, Snakes of Mysore were handed over to the institution, which will be donated to government schools in the coastal regions of Mangalore. To complement these donations, marine conservation storybooks curated by the Dakshin Foundation were also provided as
complementary resources and handedovertotheVice-Chancellor. These books will be distributed alongside Snakes of Mysore to inspire andeducateyoung minds in government schools about the importance of conserving terrestrial andmarine ecosystems.
The Bhogeshwara canvas symbolises collaboration between conservationists and educational institutions, fostering a deeper connection between students and the natural world while promoting awareness and responsibility for wildlife conservation.;
The NCC Raising Day is celebrated every year on 24 November with great enthusiasm and pride, commemorating the establishment of the National Cadet Corps under the National Cadet Corps Act of 1948. This event highlights the significanceoftheNCCingrooming
disciplined and patriotic citizens, instilling values of leadership, unity, andnation-building.
The 6 KAR AIR SQN NCC, MANGALORE organised NCC RaisingDayat St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) on 24 November 2024 between 9a.m.to11 a.m.The program commenced with a warm
welcome and introduction by LFC Vijetha Shetty, who emphasized the importance ofthedayandreflected on the NCC's contributions to the nation's development.
A video showcasing the squadron's activities throughout the year was presented, illustrating the cadets' all-round development through
various eventsandinitiatives.
Acyclothon washeldaspartofthe celebrations andwas flagged offby the Commanding Officer, Wing Commander Praveen Bishnoi. This activity encouraged physical fitness andcamaraderie amongthecadets. Wing Commander Bishnoi addressed the gathering, inspiring cadets with his reflections on the significance ofNCCDay. A painting competition was organized for JD and JW cadets, showcasing their creativity and patriotism. The winners: Cdt Chaya, Cdt Saanvi, Cdt Dhanush, and Cdt Rahul of St Aloysius Highschool Mangaluru were felicitated by the Commanding Officer during the prize distribution ceremony.
An innovative Suggestion Box System was introduced to encourage cadets to share ideas andfeedbackforimproving training and operations. Wing Commander
Bishnoi elaborated on the initiative and handed over the suggestion boxes to Flying Officer Dr Alwyn Misquith the ANO of Flight A - St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) and to Flying Officer Dr Hithakshi ANO of Flight C St Agnes College (Autonomous) Mangalore.
The Commanding Officer of 6 KAR AIR SQN NCC MANGALORE, Wing Commander Praveen Bishnoi distributed saplingtotheJDandJW cadetsandaskedthemtolook after the plant as it grows. The Commanding Officer also distributed NCC T Shirts to the SD andSWcadets. The event concluded with a reminder of the values instilled by the NCC - discipline, unity, and service tothenation.
A heartfelt vote of thanks was extended to the Commanding Officer, PI Staff, ANOs, cadets, and all contributors to theevent's
success.Thecelebration endedon ahighnote with theNCC Song.
The Christ the King Feast at St Lawrence Church and Shrine Bondel was celebrated with profound devotion and a Solemn Eucharistic Procession
OnSunday, November 24th, at4:30 p.m. Parishioners gathered in unity, marking theclosure of aweek-long celebration with a Eucharistic procession. The Altar servers, accompanied by a band, added to the solemnity of the event. The celebration was led bythemain
celebrant, Rev.Fr Faustin L Lobo, Designate Director Fr Muller’s Hospital Kankanady, who was warmly welcomedbyRev.FrAndrew LeoD'Souzaconcelebrants included Rev.Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza- Parish Priest, Rev. Fr Petr GonsalvesPrincipal St Lawrence Eng. Med. School Rev.FrWilliamD'Souza,Asst.
Parish Priest, Rev. Fr Melwin Pinto
MSIJ, Rev.FrTheo Pinto, Rev.Fr Arul Betharram and Rev.Fr Vincent Saldanha.
During his homily Rev. Fr Faustin Lobohighlighted thesignificanceof unity and familial bonds in faith, likening the feast toConfraternity
Sunday.Hereflectedontheessence of Christ’s mission, emphasizing that God desires us to live in unity, loving Him and one another. Jesus lived among us,offering Himself as food for our souls through the Eucharist.Byreceiving Hisbody and blood in the form of bread and
wine, we are called to become like Christ, embodying His love and service.
Rev. Fr Faustin encouraged the faithful to embrace their mission to become another Christ by serving selflessly and loving without boundaries, justasGod lovedthe
world by giving His only Son. He reminded everyone that the Eucharist unites us as one family and provides spiritual sustenance, empowering us to live in harmony andfulfillChrist’s teachings.
A solemn Adoration andHoly Hour was conducted by Rev.Fr Faustin, who prepared the parishioners for the Eucharistic procession. Leading the congregation in heartfelt prayers, Rev.FrFaustin set the tone for the sacred procession. The Eucharistic procession began from the church, extended to Bondel Circleandreturned, withthefaithful participating devotedly. Following the procession, Rev.Fr Faustin bestowedaspecialblessinguponall presents.
taken in a procession to the newly built Adoration Chapel, marking its formal establishment. The Adoration Chapel, blessed by Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha during the centenary celebrations, now serves as a sacred space for continuous worship.
Adding to the day's events, the Patron Saint album was ceremoniously released.Thisalbum, produced byMr. VincentFernandes from Cassia with music by James Fernandes, was sponsored by Francis and Edna. On their behalf, Mr. Lancy D'Souza received the honor from Rev.Fr Faustin, along with a shawl and memento, acknowledging their generous contribution.
In a moment of divine significance, the monstrance was reverently
The closing ceremony of the weeklong celebrations at St. Lawrence ChurchandShrineconcludedwitha well-organized stage program at 7:45 p.m. Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves warmly welcomed all distinguished guests, including Rev.Fr. Faustin Lobo, Rev Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza, Rev. Fr William D'Souza , Rev.Fr Melwin Pinto MSIJ, Rev. Fr Arul Betharram the Vice President Mr.
JohnD'Silva,Secretary Mr.Santhosh
Misquith, PPC members, ward members, Gurukars and the many parishioners who attended in large numbers.
Rev.FrPeterexpressed gratitude to all the volunteers who worked tirelessly throughout the week and to the sponsors who contributed generously tovariousaspectsofthe celebration, including meals and church needs. To honor their contributions, Rev.Fr Faustin presented them with mementos as tokens of appreciation.
In his address, Rev. Fr Faustin describedtheconstructionofsucha grand shrine as a miracle and expressed hope for many more miracles in the future. He congratulated Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza for his dedication and urged everyone not only to build physical structures but alsotofocus on building families, strengthening thechurchcommunity, andkeeping the Holy Spirit alive within their hearts.
A special screening of St. Lawrence our patron saint movie scope took place. This was directed by Savant Sudhakar, sponsored by Dr. Preethi D’Souza and family and Mr. Anil Lavina Jia, and written by Rev.Fr. Andrew and Dr. Preethi D’Souza.
Thedirector washonored byRev.Fr Andrew, who honored them with shawl and memento & his team in recognition oftheircontributions.
Rev. Fr William led the congregation in the grace before meals, followed by a Thanksgiving hymn sung by all the parishioners, marking theendoftheceremony.
The entire event was skillfully hosted by Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, ensuring a smooth and meaningful conclusion to the week-long celebrations. The parishioners departed with a sense of spiritual renewal, unity,andjoy.
Photography: StanlyBantwal Report: MeenaBarboza
St Aloysius University observes 75th
Constitution Day
November 26 is a very important day in the democratic system of independent India - our Constitution Day which is being celebrated across thiscountry.
StAloysiusDeemedtobeUniversity celebrated the 75th Constitution Day on 26th November 2024 in SanidhyaHalltomarkourrespectto theIndianConstitution andpersons who have been instrumental in draftingthe Constitution.
Dr Rose Veera DSouza, Dean, School of Arts andHumanities, was the Chief Guest. Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ, Vice Chancellor of the University presided over the programme. Rev. Dr Melwyn
DCunha SJ Pro Vice Chancellor, Dr AlwynDSaandDrRonaldNazareth, Registrars, Directors, Deans, Teaching and non-teaching staff members were present for the programme.
Dr Rose Veera DSouza, in her speech,spoke about the conceptualisation of the Constitution. She spoke about the Constitution of India which introduced with the three goals i.e., colonial powers, significant values which include social revolution precepts and constitutional remedies. She elaborated the word ‘Secular’ whichholds equal respect
to all the religions and ‘Socialist’ which indicates to eliminate all forms of exploitation such associal, political andeconomic. She made a note of the contribution of three stalwarts who arethe realheroes of our nation, Dr B.R. Ambedkar, Mr M.K. Gandhi and Mr Jawaharlal Nehru and their contributions in preparing theConstitution.
President of the programme, Rev. Dr Praveen Martis, in his speech emphasized to give awareness to the common people about our Constitution which was introduced only forthepeople ofIndia. Healso
the stressed the importance of celebrating the Constitution Day to rededicate ourselves to the subline values enshrined in our Constitution. Hesharedtheplansof organising intensive awareness programmes onthecampusandthe surroundings during the next 14 months asperUGC guidelines.
Dr Dinesh Nayak, Assistant Professor of Kannada, compered the programme and proposed the vote ofthanks.
FactsabouttheFormation ofthe Constitution:
The Constitution of India is one of the greatest constitutions in the world that has provided equality, justice andfreedom toevery citizen
ofthiscountry.Therefore,ascitizens of India, we all need to understand the importance of the values of the Constitution and pay tribute to the architect of our Constitution, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. It is also an occasion forall of us torededicate ourselves to the sublime values enshrined in ourConstitution.
The Constitution of India did not formulate everything on its own. It has incorporated some of the aspirations and values of many countries that were already independent republics and had constitutions atthattime.
India has adopted the concept of Five-Year Plans from the Constitution of Soviet Russia, the
concept of socio-economic rights fromtheConstitution ofIreland,the phrase ‘We the People’ from the Constitution of America, and the concept of ‘Liberty, Equality and Fraternity’ from the Constitution of France.
During the formation of the Constitution, an attempt was made toformulate customs and laws that were suitable for this land to the extent possible. Even though our Constitution is 75years old, itisstill respected and if there is a pulse of life in it, it is because at that time this country was comprehensively understood, and the challenges were more concretely understood andcaredfor.
RAY UTSAV 2K24
25November2024wasaRed-Letter
Day in the history of St Raymond’s PU College, for it celebrated the Annual Day "RAY UTSAV”, with a great enthusiasm and solemnity. Thechiefguests were escortedby a lively band, marching ahead of the guests. This event commenced with a soulful prayer song and a vibrant welcome dance.
Rev. Fr. Dr. Joseph Martis, Parish priest, Most Holy Redeemer church, Derebail, blessed the occasion and
addressed the young minds. He said, “This event is not just an occasion to celebrate achievements but also a time to reflect on the journey that has brought us here”. Having gone through the report presented, I am deeply impressed bythededication andthehardwork of both the staff and students he expressed.
Sr. Dr. Lilly Pereira BS, Provincial Superior and Corporate Manager, presided over the event. In her presidential message she mentioned “The achievements highlighted on this day are a
testament to the commitment of the PU College towards nurturing talents and fostering excellence”. She confidently said that this institution will continue to create bright and responsible individuals whowillcontribute richly tosociety.
Sri. Sharath Gore, Co-Founder and Director of Vibrant PU College, Moodabidri, A.H. Nasir, Headmaster, Balmy Eng. Med. High school,Gurupura, Sr.Dr.Mariola BS, Educational Coordinator and Correspondent of our PU college, Sr. Vithalis BS, Superior, St Raymond's Convent, Mrs. Devanandini Marla Jain, PTA Vice President were the chief guests. They appreciated the hard work, dedication andcommitment ofstaff andstudents.
Asher Samuel Simson, Alumnus, National level gold medalist, shot
gun trapshooting was the guest of honor and was felicitated for his remarkable achievement.
TheAnnualreport ofthePUCollege depicted the activities, achievements, the milestones and thesuccessstories. Itwaspresented by few of our students artistically and won the hearts and minds of the audience & the guests. The suitable pictures displayed on LED were fantastic.
The cultural programs featuring a variety of performances such as Tribute to Father Founder, Patriotic dance, Nature Dance,fusion dance, thought provoking skits, YakshaganaandPiliNalikereflected thediverse&multifacetedtalentsof the students. The mind-blowing performances got a standing ovation and much praise from the audience.
The college toppers, meritorious students and champions of the Sports day event were awarded for their excellence. The parents who hadwontheprizesinvariousevents organized on sports day were felicitated.
Program was directed by Sr. Anita Lydia BS, the Principal and Mrs Savitha Menezes, Lecturer in Economics. The program was compared by Mrs. Avita Menezes, Lecturer-computer science and Mr. Hemanth, Lecturer-Kannada. Mrs. Raina, Lecturer in Commerce, proposed a vote of thanks. The celebrations left a lasting impression, fostering pride and motivation among the college community, reinforcing the institution's commitment to holistic development andexcellence.
Mrs.AvitaMenezes LecturerinComputer Science
Will U.S. Fraud Charges Against Adani Lead to Less Foreign Investments inIndia
The Adani Group rapidly grew into India’s largest business conglomerate after Prime Minister Modi assumed power in 2014 November 28, 2024
On November 20, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) filed criminal charges against billionaire Gautam Adani and two other
executives of India’s Adani Group alleging “conspiracies to commit…substantive securities fraud.” Also, “Gautam S. Adani and seven other business executives allegedly bribed (bribes totaled more than $250 million) the Indian government to finance lucrative contracts” for a large solar energy projects, a U.S. official said in a statement.
“On several occasions, Gautam S. Adanipersonally metwithanIndian government official to advance the Bribery Scheme,andthedefendants held in-person meetings with each other to discuss aspects of its execution,” theDOJstated.
Also on November 20, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)filedcivilcharges alleging that Gautam Adani andhis nephewSagarAdani“wereengaged in the bribery scheme during a September 2021 note offering by Adani Green that raised $750 million, including approximately $175millionfromU.S.investors.The Adani Green offering materials included statements about its anticorruption and anti-bribery efforts that were materially false or
The Adani Group said the SEC and DOJ allegations against its executives are baseless.
Gautam Adani, 62, founder of the Adani Group, has a net worth of $63 billion according toForbes.With$32billion inannual revenues, the Adani group’s wide range of businesses includes owning power plants, transmission lines and coal mines; cement and real estate businesses in India and abroad; operating the Mumbai airport and other airports; and Mundra, India’s largest port and otherports.
The Adani Group, which began in 1988asacommodities tradingfirm, expanded through acquisitions and with the support of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to Forbes.
In 2014, Gautam Adani’s net worth was $2.8 billion, according to the magazine.He is fromGujarat. That year Narendra Modi, the former Chief Minister of Gujarat, took over asIndia’sPrimeMinister.Adani“has
profited since fellow Gujarati Narendra Modi, India’s most influential prime minister in decades, took office in 2014,” according toAPNews.
By September 2022, Adani’s net worth rocketed up more than 50fold to $152 billion, according toForbes. The Adani Group was then the largest business conglomerate in India by stock market value.
When he first became Prime Minister in 2014, Narendra Modi announced he would create 100 million new jobs. Yet today, ten years later, including hidden unemployment, more than 200 million are unemployed in India –roughly the entire population of
Brazil. Millions more are semiemployed, including in part-time jobs as cooks and cleaners in middle-and upper-class homes.
Not surprisingly, India’s young population, with half being under the age of 25, is no longer viewed by Western analysts as a favorable demographic dividend but as a “ticking time bomb,” asThe TimesofLondon noted.
Since becoming Prime Minister, Modi has announced several major economic plans, including tackling rising unemployment. But to fulfill even part of his plans he needs to attract at least $3 trillion in investments, especially for critical infrastructure projects. Private companies in India donot have the capital and the technology and mostly avoid investing in infrastructure given low profits and policy uncertainties. Modi and his officials are eager to attract foreign investors.
Overthe past week, bonds of some of the ten companies in the Adani Group were downgraded by S&P and other global credit rating agencies. The prices of the bonds, including those sold to U.S. and other foreign investors, fell sharply. The stocks of the ten companies in the Adani group collectively lost $55billion invalue.
“The U.S. bribery charges against Gautam Adani further complicate the calculus for foreign investors with respect to India,” Matt Orton, chief market strategist at U.S. brokerage Raymond James, toldCNBC.The Financial Timesnoted that, for international investors, thechargesagainst Adani “raise new questions about the probity and integrity of Indian regulators and business leaders, while casting doubts on the nation’s preferred narrative of an ascending economy that offers a safe alternative to a corrupt and capricious China.”
Already the U.S. charges are having an impact on funding for future
Following news of the DOJandSEC charges, Kenya cancelled two contracts with the Adani Group, BBCreported: $1.9 billion upgrade of Kenya’s main airport; and $736 million for constructing power lines.
Adani projects. The U.S. International Development Finance Corp, for instance, is reviewing a commitment tolend$553 millionto fund a project partly owned by the AdaniGroup. "Wearecommittedto ensuring that our projects and partners uphold the highest standards of integrity and compliance," an agency official said,according toReuters . The Adani Group rapidly became India’s largest conglomerate under Prime Minister Modi. So, the U.S. allegations against the Adani executives will likely lead U.S. and other Western investors tobe more cautious about investing, notjust in the Adani Group, but in India. As it is,Westerncompaniesandinvestors are mainly interested in investing in consumer and media businesses in India and not in funding much needed infrastructure and job creatingprojects.
In February 2023, New York based Hindenburg Research published a report which offered details alleging that Adani “engaged in a brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud scheme over the course of
decades.” Following the report, the Adani Group of companies lost more than $100 billion in value, withsomeofthestocksinthegroup falling60% from theirpeaklevels.
In August 2023, Deloitte resigned from itsrole asstatutory auditor for Adani Ports, citing undisclosed related-party transactions “flagged in our report as the basis for a qualified opinion that accompanied its resignation,” according to Hindenburg.
Apparently, Adani and his supporters believe that, Donald Trump, after he assumes the U.S. Presidency in January 2025, could dismiss the investigations against the Adani executives. Yes, Trump has a reputation for striking deals. Assuming there is a deal happens, whatcanGautamAdaniofferTrump inreturn?
In its 2023 report, Hindenburg Research stated that it “presented overwhelming evidence…of why we believedIndianconglomerate Adani Group was operating ‘the largest conincorporate history.’”
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